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Adjectival Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“
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adjectival

[ษ™dหˆdส’ษ›k.tษช.vษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

grammar usage

Adjectival refers to something that pertains to or is characteristic of an adjective. In grammar, adjectives are words that describe or modify nouns, providing more information about them. An adjectival phrase can function in a similar way, acting as a modifier for nouns or pronouns. Understanding adjectival forms is crucial for effective communication and precise expression in both written and spoken language.

Synonyms

descriptive, modifying, qualifying.

Examples of usage

  • The adjectival form of the word 'beauty' is 'beautiful'.
  • In the sentence 'The tall building is impressive', 'tall' is an adjectival descriptor.
  • Using adjectival phrases can enhance your writing style.
  • Students learn about adjectival placements in English grammar classes.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Grammatical Role

  • In English, adjectives can appear before nouns (e.g., 'blue sky') or after verbs (e.g., 'the sky is blue').
  • Adjectives can be descriptive, quantitative, or demonstrative, showcasing the diversity in how we describe things.

Language Acquisition

  • Children typically learn adjectives by first observing color and size, noticing how words enhance their understanding of the world.
  • Research indicates that using more adjectives in conversations with children can improve their vocabulary and comprehension.

Cultural Relevance

  • In literature, authors often use adjectives creatively to evoke imagery and emotion, enhancing the reader's experience.
  • Adjectival forms can convey attitudes or cultural values; for example, โ€˜traditionalโ€™ vs. โ€˜modernโ€™ shapes how we perceive ideas and practices.

Psychology

  • Studies show that the use of positive adjectives can influence mood and perception in both writing and speech.
  • The choice of adjectives reflects oneโ€™s individual perspective; how we describe something can reveal our own feelings towards it.

Origin of 'adjectival'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'adjectival' comes from the Latin root 'adjectivus,' meaning 'thrown at' or 'added to,' referring to how adjectives add description.
  • Historically, adjectives were seen as added attributes in language, emphasizing the characteristics of nouns since ancient Greek and Latin times.

The term 'adjectival' is derived from the Latin word 'adjectivus', which means 'thrown to' or 'added'. The Latin 'adjectus' comes from 'ad' meaning 'to' and 'jacere' meaning 'to throw'. Originally, it referred to a type of word that added more detail to a noun, serving to qualify or describe the noun's characteristics. The adoption of 'adjectival' into English grammar dates back to the late Middle Ages, reflecting its evolving usage through various languages like Old French and subsequently, Modern English. Over the centuries, this concept has remained central to the study of syntax and the structure of language, illustrating its importance in grammatical categorization and linguistic analysis. Today, it is essential for students learning English as it's crucial for expressing ideas with clarity and depth.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,692, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.